Belgium booked their place in the next round with a commanding 5-2 win over Tunisia on Saturday, with the European side playing some exhilarating attacking football in the process.

Despite the comfortable nature of the victory, Roberto Martinez’s men are now sweating on the fitness on a number of major players – with Romelu Lukaku the major concern.

The Manchester United striker, who scored twice in the win over Tunisia, has picked up external ankle ligament damage, while both Eden Hazard and Dries Mertens are also carrying knocks after the victory.

Martinez said Belgium would make major changes to their starting XI for the final Group G clash against England.

“The answer is very clear – if we could have seven days to prepare the game and then have seven days for the next game I would say carry on with the same starting XI,” he said.

“The reality now is that we are qualified, and in a tournament like the World Cup you’re only as good as the 23 players in your squad. There’ll be opportunities to give minutes to other players who deserve them. We need to assess the three injury concerns.”

England can book a place in the round of 16 by beating Panama on Sunday night, but Gareth Southgate is expecting a stubborn and robust opponent to make it difficult for his side.

One man that will sit out the game is Dele Alli, who has not recovered from a quad complaint picked up against Tunisia in time to feature.

Southgate has suggested the Tottenham star will be ready to play a role in subsequent games for England but would watch the Panama clash from the sidelines.

“This morning he followed the exact programme we had planned,” he said.

“He started training with the rest of the group and then did some more running on his own, so he’s progressing really well. We’re really pleased with where he is at, but he wouldn’t be ready for the game.”

Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek is widely expected to take Alli’s place in the starting XI.

Sunday’s action also includes Senegal taking on Japan and Colombia facing Poland.

About The Author

I am a freelance football writer from Northern Ireland, who is currently based in Western Australia. I have a degree in Media Studies and a love for the beautiful game. Follow me on Twitter at @90minsonline.